1 The University Page 6 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS

“We Are Marshall” 2008-09 Opponents Quick Facts and General Information ------3 Opponent Capsules ------56-64 Records of the Chadwick Era ------4-5 2009 C-USA Championship Info ------65 ------6-9 Center ------10-11 2007-08 Review Huntington, W.Va. ------12-13 2007-08 Notes ------66 “We Are Marshall” Movie ------14 2007-08 Statistics ------67-73 Media Coverage ------15 Game Reviews ------74-84 Strength & Conditioning ------16 Athletic Training ------17 History/Records Conference USA ------18-21 1997 NCAA Tournament Team ------86 Coaching Staff Locker Room Club ------22-23 History - 1970’s ------87 Page 30 Buck Harless Program ------24 History - 1980’s ------88 History - 1990’s ------89 The Team History - 2000’s ------90 2008-09 Outlook ------26-27 Players in the Pros ------91 The Players Roster Information ------28-29 Honors and Awards ------92-93 Page 36 Head Coach Royce Chadwick ------30-31 Single Game Records ------94-95 Q&A With Coach Chadwick ------32-33 Single Season Records ------96-97 Associate Head Coach Roxanne White ------34 Career Records ------98-99 Assistant Coach Jordie Soso ------35 1,000 Point Club ------100 Assistant Coach John McGraw ------35 All-Time Coach History ------101 Casey Baker ------36-37 Year-by-Year Results ------102-105 Alix Barnette ------38-39 Series Vs. Opponents ------106-111 Tynikki Crook ------40-41 All-Time Letterwinners ------112 Alyssa Hammond ------42-43 Chantelle Handy ------44-45 Marshall University Kendra King ------46-47 MU President Dr. Stephen J. Kopp ------114 Newcomers ------48-52 Director of Athletics Bob Marcum ------115 Graduate Assistants ------53 Marshall Staff ------116 2007-08 Senior Class ------54 Staff Directory ------117 Media Information ------118 History/Records WMUL/Travel Information ------119 Page 86 Television Roster ------120

2 GENERAL INFORMATION Last Postseason ______2-1 in 2008 C-USA Tournament Name ______Marshall University W, 65-58 (C-USA First Round) Media Guide Credits Founded ______1837 W, 71-69 (OT) vs. UAB (C-USA Quarterfi nals) Location ______Huntington, W.Va. L, 68-59 vs. SMU (C-USA Semifi nals) The 2008-09 Marshall women’s media guide is a Enrollment ______13,814 Last NCAA Tournament Appearance ______1997 publication of the Marshall Sports Information offi ce. The Nickname ______Thundering Herd Result ______L, 49-69 at Colorado guide was designed using Adobe InDesign and Photoshop Colors ______Green & White software. National Affi liation ______NCAA Division I SPORTS INFORMATION Conference ______Conference USA Asst. AD/Media Relations ______Randy Burnside (Marshall, ‘99) The guide was written and edited by Assistant Sports Home Floor/Capacity ______Cam Henderson Center/9,043 Offi ce ______(304) 696-4660 Information Director Bob Pristash, with assistance from the entire SID staff . Special thanks to Brandon Parro, President ______Dr. Stephen J. Kopp (Notre Dame, ‘73) E-Mail [email protected] Steve Cotton, Joey Florian and Woody Woodrum. Director of Athletics ______Bob Marcum (Marshall, ‘58) Assistant SID ______Brandon Parro (Indiana-Pa., ‘01) Assoc. AD/Chief of Staff ______Jeff O’Malley (Miami-Ohio, ‘90) Offi ce ______(304) 696-6525 Cover designs by Bob Pristash Assoc. AD/SWA ______Beatrice Crane Banford (No. Carolina St., ‘92) E-Mail [email protected] Assoc. AD/Compliance ______Derek Gwinn (Marshall, ‘03) Asst. SID/W. Basketball ______Bob Pristash (, ‘03) Photography for this publication was provided by Rick Assoc. AD/Facilities ______Scott Morehouse (Marshall, ‘99) Offi ce ______(304) 696-2418 Haye, Brad Helton, Brad Bader, Brandon Parro, Matt Riley, Assoc. AD/Finance ______David Steele (Rice, ‘82) Cell ______(610) 393-9974 Marilyn Testerman-Haye, Conference USA and the LPGA. Faculty Athletic Rep. ______Robert Bookwalter (Fresno St., ‘79) E-Mail [email protected] Athletic Ticket Offi ce ______1-800-THE-HERD Graduate Assistants ______Chris Atwood Printing was provided by Chapman Printing Company ______Brad Bater (Huntington, W.Va.), with special thanks to Mark Cole. COACHING STAFF ______Erica Rife Head Coach ______Royce Chadwick (S.W. Oklahoma St., ‘80) ______Ben Wright Record at Marshall ______105-103 (.505), 7 years Grad. Asst. Offi ce Phone ______(304) 696-4662/5276 Division I Record ______318-188 (.628), 17 years Program Assistant______Sandy Toppings GENERAL INFORMATION Overall Record ______505-235 (.682), 24 years Sports Information Offi ce Phone ______(304) 696-5275 Associate Head Coach ______Roxanne White (Stephen F. Austin, ‘94) Sports Information Fax ______(304) 696-2325 Assistant Coach ______Jordie Soso (Memphis, ‘04) Press Row Phone ______(304) 696-3304 Assistant Coach ______John McGraw (Massachusetts, ‘96) Mailing Address ______Marshall University Sports Information Administrative Assistant ______Judy Rogero ______P.O. Box 1360 Graduate Assistant ______Chris Andrews ______Huntington, WV 25715 Graduate Assistant ______Melody Hudson Overnight Address ______Cam Henderson Center, Room 2036 Graduate Assistant ______Hilary Sanders HerdZone.com ______1801 3rd Avenue Basketball Offi ce Phone ______(304) 696-5445 ______Huntington, WV 25703 Athletic Trainer ______Jennifer Butler Offi cial Athletics Website ______www.herdzone.com Strength Coach ______John Hark CONFERENCE USA TEAM INFORMATION Commissioner ______Britton Banowsky 2007-08 Overall Record ______17-16 Asst. Commissioner/Media Relations ______Russ Anderson 2007-08 Conference USA Record/Finish ______7-9/T-6th Assoc. Media Relations Director/WBB Contact ______Debbie Davis Starters Returning/Lost ______4/1 E-Mail [email protected] Letterwinners Returning/Lost ______6/6 Address ______5201 N. O’Connor Blvd., Suite 300 Newcomers ______10 ______Irving, TX 75039 Offi ce Phone ______(214) 774-1300 HISTORY Offi ce Fax ______(214) 496-0046 First Year of Basketball ______1969 Website ______www.conferenceusa.com HerdZone is the offi cial site of Overall Record ______525-515 (.505), 38 years Conference USA Record ______24-24 (.500), 3 years Marshall University Athletics Record ______207-111 (.651), 25 years

3 THE CHADWICK ERA

Set MAC and program single game attendance mark in 2004 with 7,017 fans vs. Kentucky

14 Conference USA and MAC Player of the Week Awards First Preseason WNIT appearance in program history

- No. 2 in career rebounds at Marshall - Had one of four 20 rebound games in MU history - #4 in three-point accuracy for a career

- Top three-point shooter in program history - 1,609 career points, third on all-time MU list - Third best free throw shooter - Top ten in career assists - Sixth best single season three point shooter - Ninth in career 3-pointers

Sikeetha Catie Knable Reshundra Smiley Shepard-Hall

4 Re-writing the record book

School’s fi rst multiple nationally televised games in 2007-08 2004-05 MAC East Champions Modupe Ishola

- #2 shot blocker in the history of the program - No. 4 career rebounder - Top ten career free throw shooter - Holds three of top ten single season block totals

Kizzy Hart Casey Baker

- 68 3-pointers in 2007-08 is most in single season - First in MU history to be named to All-Defensive team - Holds record for top two single game 3-point - C-USA steals leader in 2007-08 shooting performances - 105 steals in 07-08 was No. 2 single season total - Top ten regular season point scorer - 8th best single season assist total

5 Located in beautiful Huntington, W.Va., Marshall to a level of importance commensurate with that of the Among those are the John Deaver Drinko Library and University is the focal point of a city with a population Executive and Legislative branches. Information Center, which has a 24-hour study center MARSHALL UNIVERSITY of about 50,000, situated in a Tri-State area of more Marshall was founded as Marshall Academy in 1837, and more than 250 computers available for student than 300,000. The Huntington campus, noted for its designated a college in 1858, the state normal school in use; the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall attractiveness, level terrain and accessibility, occupies 1867 and a university in 1961. University; the Robert C. Byrd Center for Rural Health; about 88 acres near the center of Huntington, a few Today, Marshall University is a thriving institution that the Jomie Jazz Center; a 1,000-space parking garage, a blocks east of downtown and just a walk away from the functions through 13 divisions: the Elizabeth McDowell 500-bed residential housing complex, and the Harless banks of the Ohio River. Marshall also has a campus in Lewis College of Business, the College of Education and Dining Hall. South Charleston, W.Va., and centers across the state. Human Services, the College of Fine Arts, the College of In 2007, the $48 million Robert C. Byrd Biotechnology Marshall University is named after John Marshall, Chief Information Technology and Engineering, the College Science Center opened, as did a $22 million Clinical Justice of the United States from 1801 through 1835. The of Liberal Arts, the College of Health Professions, the Education and Outreach Center on the site of the former longest serving Chief Justice in United States history, College of Science, the Marshall University Graduate Fairfi eld Stadium – past football home of the Marshall Marshall is widely regarded as having established a College, the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Thundering Herd. Additionally, a $94 million public- broad interpretation of the Constitution of the United Mass Communications, the Joan C. Edwards School of private project is underway on the Huntington campus. States, which established the Constitution as the basis Medicine, University College, the School of Extended Main components of the plan are two new living/ of the American legal system and the “rule of law” as the Education and the Graduate School of Education and learning residence halls, which will open in time for the law of the land. During his tenure as Chief Justice, the Professional Development. fall 2008 semester, and a 123,000 square-foot student Judicial Branch of the new American government rose Enrollment at Marshall University is about 14,000, and recreation center, which is projected to open in January in spring 2007 more than 2,600 degrees were awarded 2009. New baseball and softball fi elds also are included at the university’s 170th commencement. Several major construction projects have been completed in recent years at Marshall University. marshall facts

Location: Huntington, W.Va. Founded: 1837 as Marshall Academy Enrollment: 16,500 (12,000 undergraduate) President: Dr. Stephen J. Kopp Faculty Profi le: 71% hold a Ph.D. or the highest degree in their fi eld Student-Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1 Major Fields for Associate Programs: 51 Major Fields for Bachelor Programs: 50 Major Fields for Graduate Programs: 50

6 in the project. Marshall’s commitment to undergraduate education of As Marshall continues to expand its campus for future the highest quality for outstanding students. Designed growth, its attention remains on the individual student. to provide academic opportunities and challenges, we are A quality education begins with an outstanding faculty. the center houses the program • An Educational Community in which all As a state-supported university, fi nancial assistance is a and the prestigious Society of Yeager Scholars, which is members work together to promote and celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. strengthen teaching and learning; distinct advantage at Marshall. About 60 percent of the • An Open Community uncompromisingly university’s students receive fi nancial assistance through While course work is demanding, the atmosphere in protecting freedom of thought, belief and grants, loans, student employment and/or academic which classes are conducted is casual and friendly, with expression; scholarships, with annual fi nancial aid awards exceeding a student-faculty ratio of 20 to 1. Marshall professors • A Civil Community treating all individuals take special care to get to know each student and take and groups with consideration, decency, $92 million. and respect, and expressing disagreements Academic possibilities abound at Marshall with 97 pride in their students’ accomplishments. There is a in rational ways; degree programs, including 46 on the baccalaureate genuine feeling of community spirit among the faculty, • A Responsible Community accepting level and 42 on the master’s level. Marshall provides a students and staff that makes Marshall a very special obligations and following behavioral place. Because of the university’s size, each student can guidelines designed to support the common variety of academic options that give students a solid good; foundation for future success. Among them are exciting participate fully in all of the academic opportunities, • A Safe Community respecting each other’s study-abroad opportunities, with more than 125 including discussion groups, labs, internships and rights, privacy and property; programs off ered in 35 countries. lecture classes. • A Well Community respecting and Building on a winning tradition and growing national promoting physical and emotional health; Marshall’s fundamental mission is to make public • An Ethical Community refl ecting honesty, higher education available to all qualifi ed individuals, presence, Marshall’s athletic programs are an integral integrity and fairness in both academic and regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnicity or creed. part of the university. With 15 varsity sports, Marshall extracurricular activities; athletic teams compete at the NCAA Division I level in • A Pluralistic Community celebrating and

Through special programs such as the Higher Education MARSHALL UNIVERSITY Conference USA. The Thundering Herd teams are an learning from our diversity; for Learning Problems (H.E.L.P.) program and the West • A Socially Conscious Community acting as Virginia Autism Training Center, Marshall provides economic and social focal point of the university, its citizens of the world and seeking to contribute exclusive learning opportunities for people who community and the Tri-State region. A competitive to the betterment of people and their otherwise might be denied a college education. intramural program provides Marshall students a environments; diverse range of opportunities to participate in team • A Judicious Community remaining alert to the The John Hall Center for Academic Excellence highlights threats posed by hatred, intolerance and other and individual sports. injustices and ever-prepared to correct them.

▲ The new state-of-the-art recreation center is scheduled to open next year

7 MARSHALL UNIVERSITY

▲ Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center

▲ The latest addition to the Marshall campus is the Rober C. Byrd Biotechnology Science Center

▲ Old Main

▲ Marshall’s memorial fountain

8 student life academic support

►Marshall is ranked by APB News as one of the safest ►Marshall’s John Deaver Drinko Library, one of the universities in the country. With emergency phone stations nation’s fi nest libraries, has a 24-hour study room across campus and 24-hour patrols by car, foot and bicycle, and more than 250 computers. The library also MUPD is always there to help. houses several historical collections and thousands ►Greek life at Marshall provides students with a great of volumes of books and periodicals. way to make new friends, develop new skills, and serve their local community. Several groups even have tutoring ►Our Academic Support Center provides students programs and scholastic awards. with assistance through a variety of services. Tutoring Services provides each student with two ►Involvement is the key to getting the most from your hours of free tutoring per week in almost any class. college experience. Student organizations provide opportunities for growth and development that complement ►The MU Writing Center off ers students a variety and enhance classroom learning. Marshall provides many of resources to help improve their writing, including opportunities to become involved in campus life with more individual and group tutorials. than 150 active organizations. ►Even if you are unsure of what you want to major ►Marshall has six residence halls off ering single and double rooms, as well as four brand-new residence halls which off er in, the center also provides Academic Advisement suite-style living. for students that have not yet declared a major. MARSHALL UNIVERSITY

▲ Marshall Commons student housing ▲ Marshall’s newest dorms opened up for the fall development was the fi rst in the nation to off er 2008 semester wireless phones to its residents

9 The Cam Henderson Center, located in the heart of the Marshall University campus, is the home of the Thundering Herd women’s basket- ball team. Within the 213,000 square-foot fully-equipped Henderson Center, the team fi nds the tools necessary to achieve success. CAM HENDERSON CENTER Marshall at the The Henderson Center, one of the fi nest venues in Conference USA, received a $5-million renovation prior to the 1998-99 season that Cam Henderson Center actually lowered the number of seats from 10,000+ to a more intimate 9,048.

Season ____ W _____L ____ Pct. The lower half of the arena, which was originally built in 1981, was completely gutted and rebuilt with fan comfort in mind. Permanent, 1981-82 _____6 _____7 ____ .462 padded, chairback-seating was installed along the walkways designed to allow fans to go from section to section without missing any of 1982-83 _____9 _____8 ____ .529 the game. In the fall of 2003, a refurbished fl oor and new scoreboard were also installed. Through the direction of ESPN, the arena also received state of the art wiring for television and radio broadcasts. 1983-84 ____ 13 _____2 ____ .867 1984-85 ____ 10 _____2 ____ .833 In addition to this, a new Big Green Room for pregame parties, banquets and functions was opened prior to the 2001-02 season beneath the north side stands. That facility includes meeting rooms that are utilized by the program throughout the year. 1985-86 ____ 11 _____2 ____ .846 1986-87 ____ 14 _____1 ____ .933 The Henderson Center is a multi-purpose structure that houses much of Marshall University’s athletic department. Inside the facility are 1987-88 ____ 10 _____4 ____ .714 the women’s basketball offi ces, a majority of the athletic department staff, the ticket offi ce, an 800-seat natatorium, a state of the art train- ing room and spacious locker rooms. 1988-89 ____ 12 _____2 ____ .857 1989-90 _____8 _____7 ____ .533 The facility was offi cially named after the legendary Cam Henderson on May 10, 1979. Henderson won 362 basketball games during his reign at Marshall and is credited with revolutionizing the game with the development of the zone defense and the ‘rule’ fast break. 1990-91 ____ 10 _____3 ____ .769 1991-92 _____8 _____3 ____ .727 The single game attendance record for a women’s hoops game was set at Jam the Cam IV, as 7,017 fans fl ooded the Henderson Center 1992-93 _____8 _____4 ____ .667 to see the Herd take on Kentucky on Dec. 12, 2004. It was the biggest home crowd in the Mid-American Conference that season. The ’s single-game attendance record still belongs to Marshall when over 5,200 fans watched the 1987 team upend More- 1993-94 _____5 _____5 ____ .500 head State, 69-62. 1994-95 _____9 _____3 ____ .750 The Henderson Center is nationally-known for being a diffi cult place to play. Large crowds often fi ll the facility and give Marshall one of the 1995-96 ____ 10 _____2 ____ .833 best home court advantages in the country. Because of this, the Henderson Center is often refered to as “Herd Heaven”. Once again, as 1996-97 ____ 10 _____2 ____ .833 it was when it fi rst opened in 1981, the Cam Henderson Center is a fi rst-rate basketball facility. 1997-98 _____4 _____9 ____ .308 1998-99 _____3 _____8 ____ .273 1999-00 _____2 _____9 ____ .182 2000-01 _____6 _____6 ____ .500 2001-02 _____4 _____7 ____ .364 2002-03 _____8 _____4 ____ .667 2003-04 ____ 10 _____5 ____ .667 2004-05 ____ 10 _____2 ____ .833 2005-06 _____7 _____4 ____ .636 2006-07 _____9 _____5 ____ 643 2007-08 _____7 _____5 ____ .583 Totals ____ 223 __ 121 ___.648

10 LOCATION The Cam Henderson Center is located on Third Avenue on the north west corner of Marshall University’s campus. HUNTINGTON AREA HOTELS The facility has served as the home of Marshall University basketball since 1981. DAYS INN EXECUTIVE INN HAMPTON INN TICKETS I-64, Exit 15 3325 US Rte. 60 1 Cracker Barrel Dr. For the latest information on ticketing, call 1-800-THE-HERD. Tickets for all Thundering Herd athletic events are Huntington, WV Huntington, WV Barboursville, WV available at the Marshall University Athletic Ticket Offi ce located inthe main lobby of the Cam Henderson Center and (304) 733-4477 (304) 529-1331 (304) 733-5300 online at www.HerdZone.com. HOLIDAY INN HOLIDAY INN RED ROOF INN HOTEL & SUITES 6007 US Rte. 60 I-64 & US Rte. 60 DIRECTIONS/GUEST PARKING 800 3rd Ave. Barboursville, WV Barboursville, WV The Cam Henderson Center is easily accessible off of Huntington’s Third Avenue. A new 1,000-space parking building Huntington, WV (304) 736-8974 (304) 733-3737 connects to the building and more than 5,000 parking spaces are within a 5-10 minute walk of the complex. Media- (304) 523-8880 permit parking is located at the corner of Third Avenue and 20th Street and at Marshall University Football Stadium (located just a few hundred yards from the Henderson Center). RADISSON HOTEL RAMADA INN STONE LODGE 1001 3rd Ave. 3094 16th Street Rd 5600 US Rte. 60 FROM I-64 WESTBOUND: Use Exit 11 ( Blvd.) Turn right at the end of the ramp toward Hal Greer Blvd. Continue Huntington, WV Huntington, WV Huntington, WV along Hal Greer Blvd. to the 5th Ave. intersection. Turn right and continue until 20th Street. Turn left on 20th Street. (304) 525-1001 (304) 523-4242 (304) 736-3451 Take an immediate left again on 3rd Ave. The Henderson Center sits on 3rd Ave. and 19th Street.

FROM I-64 EASTBOUND: Use Exit 11 (Hal Greer Blvd.) Turn left at the end of the ramp toward Hal Greer Blvd. Continue along Hal Greer Blvd. to the 5th Ave. intersection. Turn right and continue until 20th Street. Turn left on 20th Street. Take an immediate left again on 3rd Ave. The Henderson Center sits on 3rd Ave. and 19th Street.

FROM US 52 (OHIO) EASTBOUND: Follow US 52 Eastbound into Chesapeake (OH). Cross the Ohio-West Virginia Bridge. Turn left onto 5th Ave. and continue along 5th Ave. to 20th Street. Turn left on 20th Street. Take an immediate left again on 3rd Ave. The Henderson Center sits on 3rd Ave. and 19th Street. CAM HENDERSON CENTER

11 Huntington, W. Va., home of the , is just that, a city that embraces its university. In the community of nearly 50,000 people, the love and support of Marshall can be seen in the fans adorned in green and white around town. As the second largest city in the Mountain State, Huntington has been able to keep its old-time charm while growing into a modern, bustling community centered around the growth and devel- opment of the university. A community based in the southwestern part of the state bordering Ohio and Kentucky, Hun- tington is a former railroad town etched on the Ohio River. Collis P. Huntington created a railway terminus to connect the East Coast to the Midwest. In its prime, Huntington was the residential and industrial core of the Ohio River Valley. Today, Huntington remains a busy hub for transportation and industrial activities and is increasingly becoming a center for service businesses and health care. In addition to being a rail center, it is the busiest port on the Ohio River and has highways and airline connections with many major cities. Along with the busy environment, the city off ers a plethora of opportunities for relaxation and fun. Huntington is noted for its broad tree-lined streets, attractive homes, cordial atmosphere and fi ne parks. The city takes pride in its more than 750 acres of parkland. Ritter Park, located in the center of the city, is a premier municipal park utilized year-round by Huntington residents and visitors. The park features a track, tennis courts, a playground, an internationally recognized rose garden, an amphitheater and multiple picnic areas. Harris Riverfront Park is located in downtown Huntington and plays host to multiple outdoor concerts and various river activities throughout the year. The concerts range from rock to country ▲ Ritter Park and rap to jazz. Other river activities include Spring Fest and Summer Fest. Both festivals feature boat racing, a wide variety of vendors and spectacular fi reworks displays. More water fun can be found at Beech Fork Lake, just south of downtown Huntington. Beech Fork off ers dozens of campsites, picnic areas, fi shing and also rents pontoon and paddle boats for a relaxing day of leisure.

12 The Big Sandy Superstore Arena is located only blocks from Marshall’s campus and hosts nationally- known musical acts throughout the year and other entertainment events from Motocross to professional wrestling. Within an easy drive of Huntington is a wealth of outdoor adventure. West Virginia is known for its extensive state park system, world class whitewater rafting, skiing, hiking and fi shing. The state park system ranges from majestic Blackwater Falls in the east to the breathtaking view of the New River Gorge at Hawk’s Nest State Park in the south. Huntington also provides a wide array of shopping from the antique capital of Old Central City to the state’s largest shopping mall, the , located in nearby Barboursville. In fall 2004, , a multi-million dollar shopping and entertainment facility, opened along Third Avenue. The complex hosts a variety of nationally-known restaurants and retail shops and includes a state-of-the-art cinema complex. Pullman Square is a showcase for the downtown area and provides greater entertain- ment and dining options for Huntington visitors and residents. Huntington also boasts an entire menu of restaurants to satisfy any taste. A visit to Huntington would not be complete without a stop at some of the fi nest restaurants in the area including - Chili Willi’s, Savannah’s and Rocco’s. When visiting Huntington, a trip to historic Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House or Stewart’s Original Hotdogs is a must. Marshall University athletics are also heavily supported throughout the region and the state. Each football game day, tens of thousands of fans pour into Joan C. Edwards Stadium to cheer on the Herd and give Marshall one of the best home fi eld advantages in all of . Marshall University also provides a wealth of educational and recreational opportunities. Throughout HUNTINGTON, W.VA. the year, well-known artists, writers, internationally renowned lecturers and United States presidents visit Huntington and the Marshall campus. In addition, the school off ers a student recreation center, a ▲ Pullman Square natatorium and athletic courts and fi elds. In Huntington, one experiences the advantages of a large city: creativity, excitement and growth. But one also fi nds room to stretch out and relax. The city combines a wonderful mix of Eastern sophistication and Midwestern hospitality, with a gentle touch of Southern charm.

13 movie facts “WE ARE MARSHALL” FACTS Total Box Offi ce Gross: $43,545,364 Producer: Basil Iwanyk Premiere: Dec. 12, 2006 at the Director: Joseph McGinty Nichol Keith Albee Theatre in Huntington “McG” Release Date: Dec. 22, 2006 Screenwriter: Jamie Linden Studio: Warner Brothers Pictures and Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Mat- Legendary Pictures thew Fox, Anthony Mackie, Kate Filming Began: April of 2006 Mara, January Jones, Ian McShane Location: Huntington, W.Va. and and David Strathairn Atlanta, Ga.

Marshall University’s tradition and heritage made it to the big screen in 2006 when Marshall women’s basketball coach Royce ▲ Huntington’s Keith Albee Theatre Warner Brothers Pictures released “We Are Marshall” nationwide. Chadwick (right) and former men’s basketball The movie tells the story of the 1970 Marshall football tragedy and the University and coach were extras in the movie community’s resolve in the face of overwhelming adversity in the days that followed and during the 1971 football season. It was nominated for the ESPY for best sports movie of 2006.

It is a tribute to those who left us on Nov. 14, 1970 and to those who carried on to lay the foundation of what has become the greatest success story in college football history.

“They could have just shut down the program. They talked about it, but they didn’t. The moral of this story isn’t about winning and losing, not even how you play the game, but that you do play the game.” “We Are Marshall” star Matthew McConaughey, USA Today (May 1, 2006)

▲ Red Dawson (far left) with the cast of WAM at the movie premiere in Huntington

14 Marshall University and Thundering Herd athletics are no stranger to national media coverage. Over the course of the last two years, the Marshall women’s basketball team has received unprecedented national coverage.

In January of 2007, the Herd made its fi rst national televi- sion appearance, hosting East Carolina in a game carried by CSTV (now CBS College Sports). The 2007-08 season saw two more games carried by CSTV, fi rst against No. 12 West Virginia, and later the conference tournament game against SMU.

The coverage will continue in 2009 as the home contest against Southern Miss is set to be televised by ESPN2. With only a handful of games carried nationwide throughout the year, it is a credit to the direction of the program to be able to perform on that stage.

Aside from the national media, the team is covered by local television stations, radio stations and newspapers on a regular basis. All games throughout the season are also carried by Marshall’s student radio station, WMUL. NATIONAL MEDIA COVERAGE

15 Marshall University’s women’s basketball team benefi ts from having some of the fi nest strength and conditioning facilities and coaches in the Conference

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING USA at its disposal.

Under the direction of Strength & Conditioning coach John Hark, the Thundering Herd strives to become bigger, stronger, and faster. It is Hark’s job to make sure Marshall’s athletes are as physically sound as any in the country.

Hark was recently named the head strength and conditioning coach for John Hark Olympic Sports for Marshall University Athletics. Hark’s duties at Marshall will Strength and include directing the Henderson Center Weight Room, supervising a staff of Conditioning Coach Graduate Assistants and Interns and overseeing all 15 Olympic Sports teams.

Hark, 23, is a native of Wyckoff , New Jersey and a 2006 graduate of Binghamton University. After playing baseball for the Bearcats for 3 years, he worked as a Student Strength and Conditioning Intern with Track & Field, Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving and Cross Country while assisting with all other sports. Hark received a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Binghamton in 2006.

Hark joined the Herd strength staff as a graduate assistant in August of 2006, when he worked with Baseball, Softball, Women’s Tennis, Track & Field (sprinters and jumpers) and Men’s and Women’s Cross Country while assisting with all other Olympic sports.

“I’m extremely honored to take over the position of Director of Strength and Conditioning for Olympic Sports,” said Hark. “I’m truly passionate about the development of athleticism through strength and conditioning and look forward to improving upon the performance of all of Marshall’s Olympic sports programs.” Hark is a Certifi ed Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA).

Marshall basketball players utilize the brand new Robert L. “Bobby” Pruett Training Complex and the Jonathan Edward Dunfee Weight Room located next to Joan C. Edwards Stadium. The $2.6 million facility is a spacious, state-of-the-art weight training complex that features new Hammer Strength equipment, a running track and more than 285,000 pounds of new weights. It provides the Thundering Herd with one of the largest and fi nest facilities of its kind in the nation, designed to give Marshall athletes the competitive edge.

16 Marshall University student-athletes benefi t from having some of the fi nest doctors and trainers in the nation. Long-time team doctor and Under the guidance of head trainer Tom Belmaggio, Thundering Herd athletes are given the best medical care Thundering Herd supporter available. Dr. Jose Ricard passed away on July 5, 2008. Ricard dedicated The Marshall University Sports Medicine Department is an established program that continues to grow in size his life to helping others and and commitment. Marshall University believes that Sports Medicine involves education, treatment, and care, his years of service to Marshall University and the Tri-State not just of the injury, but of the athlete. It involves understanding the sport and the climate of competition region are unmatched. that motivates every athlete. Combining this understanding with a complete history and physical examination enables the physician to reach a correct diagnosis and determine the proper treatment, be it early rehabilitation He served as the team physi- and return to playing or surgical intervention which might delay returning to competition but would make it cian since 1981 and in recent years was named possible. Team Doctor Emeritus. The native of Cuba came to West Virginia in 1963 after serving as the team We are genuinely concerned for the athletes and have a desire to help them return to competition injury free physician for the Cuban Olympic Team. in the shortest amount of time. To provide this optimal health care for student-athletes, the Sports Medicine Ricard held numerous positions in the MU Sports Department is composed of a head team physician, a head trainer, two assistant trainers, fi ve graduate assistant Medicine program and is a member of the athletic trainers, and 10 undergraduate staff . school’s Athletic Hall of Fame and the MU Sports Medicine Hall of Fame. He was the recipient of Several aspects make Marshall’s Sports Medicine program a top notch organization including the undergraduate the Lifetime Member Recognition Award from the program which supplies qualifi ed student assistants to extend the coverage of the training staff . The academic Big Green scholarship foundation and was named SPORTS MEDICINE growth of the program has been dramatic over the last decade. The undergraduate curriculum under the direction an honorary alumnus of MU in 1986. of Educational Director Dr. Dan Martin, was re-accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Ricard was an active member of the Locker Room Education Programs in 1997. The curriculum, one of only 50 in the nation, is also one of the few that off ers athletic Club, Quarterback Club, Victory Club and the training in sports medicine as a full academic major. Acceptance to the program leads the student through 1,000 Tennis and Soccer Booster Clubs. He is survived hours of clinical experience working with athletes. by wife Amy and two daughters, Raquel and Jacqueline. In 1988, a Fellowship for Physicians in Sports Medicine was developed to bring doctors to Marshall’s athletic department to assist with daily health care for all student-athletes while providing the Fellow the opportunity to The Marshall University Department of Athletics learn and experience the entire spectrum of sports medicine as required in the university setting. His or her busy would like to thank the growing number of local and area physicians who give generously of their schedule also includes time within the adult fi tness exercise physiology division of Marshall’s HPER department time and talents in the care of the more than 350 assisting in various programs and research. student-athletes at Marshall. Without the eff orts of these doctors, the successes of Marshall athletics With Marshall’s athletic success in the past few years, a new era for Sports Medicine has begun with a 3,600 would not be possible. square foot modern training area housed in the athletic center at the football stadium, and the renovation of Medical Director/ Team Optometrists Head Team Physician Dr. William Ratcliff the Henderson Center training room. Marshall now houses one of the largest combined facilities in the region. Dr. Ross Patton The facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art therapeutic and rehabilitative equipment. The area serves as Dr. Chris Ratcliff the hub of injury evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, education and prevention for our student-athletes. The Primary Care Undergraduate Cur- Sports Medicine Specialists riculum Athletic Training head team physician, head trainer and assistant trainers have modern offi ces in the complex. In addition, the Dr. Rabah Boukheimis Program area serves as a classroom laboratory for students in Marshall’s undergraduate and graduate sports medicine Dr. Chuck Clements Dr. Daniel Martin Dr. Gary Cremeans Mr. Gary McIlvain degree programs. Dr. Jeremy Fuller Dr. Ronda Sturgill Dr. Michael Gibbs Dr. Greg Hendricks Marshall Training Staff Medical coverage is provided not only for Marshall’s athletic teams but also for the general student body. Health Dr. Chadley Runyon Head Athletic Trainer services are also provided through the John Marshall School of Medicine department for intramural activities. Dr. Mitch Shaver Tom Belmaggio Orthopedics Specialists Asst. Athletic Trainer The relationship of the Athletic Sports Medicine Department that has developed over the past several years Dr. Chuck Giangarra Jennifer Butler Dr. Stanley Tao Colin Myers with the School of Medicine, the Scott Orthopedic Group and the Cabell Medical Society Physicians has enhanced Daniel Ricci the quality of care of our student-athletes. Team Dentist Dr. George Beldon Team Oral Surgeon - Dr. Jose Ricard Dr. Joseph Nelson

17 CONFERENCE USA Conference USA: Dedicated to Excellence

Excellence every day. For Conference USA, dedication to excellence is a common Armed Forces Bowl, St. Petersburg Bowl, R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, Shera- thread in athletics, academics and in the community, and the guiding initiative for ton Hawai’i Bowl and Texas Bowl the league’s promising future. Conference USA features 12 nationally prominent, tradition-rich members in East Carolina, Houston, Marshall, Memphis, Rice, SMU, Men’s Basketball Southern Miss, Tulane, Tulsa, UAB, UCF and UTEP. This combination enhances • Consistently rated as one of the top basketball leagues in the country men’s and women’s programs that are steeped in athletic success and academic • 73 postseason teams (41 NCAA and 32 NIT) prowess. Together, we are dedicated to excellence, integrity and leadership in ath- • Two Final Four teams letics, academics and in our communities. • Six Elite Eight NCAA Tournament teams • One NIT Champion All C-USA institutions sponsor Division I-A football, along with several other men’s • Four NIT semifi nalists and women’s athletic programs, many of which compete regularly for NCAA Championships. C-USA sponsors competition in 19 sports - nine for men (base- Women’s Basketball ball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, tennis and indoor and outdoor • 40 NCAA Tournament appearances track and fi eld) and 10 for women (basketball, cross country, golf, softball, soccer, • 28 WNIT appearances swimming and diving, tennis, indoor and outdoor track and fi eld and volleyball). • One team in the NCAA Sweet 16 • Two WNIT semifi nalists The league sponsors numerous academic awards, including the Commissioner’s Honor Roll and the Commissioner’s Academic Medal, indicative of outstanding Baseball achievement in the classroom. C-USA annually awards six postgraduate scholar- • 39 NCAA appearances ships, along with the Sport Academic Award, Scholar Athletes of the Year and the • Four College World Series appearances in 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2001 Institutional Academic Excellence Award. • Nine Super Regional appearances • Has produced at least four NCAA teams in each of the last six seasons SUCCESS ON THE PLAYING FIELD Conference USA performers have achieved great success in competition, placing In addition, 28 volleyball teams, 39 men’s and women’s soccer teams and 17 soft- the league among the top conferences in the nation. ball teams have earned NCAA Tournament bids. C-USA has sent three men’s soc- cer teams to the NCAA College Cup, fi ve softball teams to the Women’s College Football World Series and three volleyball teams to the Sweet 16. The league has also • Rated among the top seven conferences in the nation had three national champions in NCAA track and fi eld competition, one national • 38 teams have earned bowl bids champion in diving and numerous NCAA individual and team competitors in • Member of the Bowl Championship Series cross country, golf, swimming, tennis and track and fi eld. Overall, Conference • Bowl tie-ins with the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, GMAC Bowl, Bell Helicopter USA teams and individuals have made 506 NCAA appearances.

18 sioner’s Academic Medal, indicative of outstanding for 2007-08. achievement in the classroom. A PROUD HISTORY; A PROMISING FUTURE C-USA ON TV Conference USA was formed in 1995 and quickly C-USA enjoys signifi cant television exposure through emerged as one of the nation’s top conferences. The its partnerships with ESPN Inc. and College Sports Television Networks (CSTV). The league entered into conference unveiled its name, logo and commission- long-term agreements with both ESPN and CSTV, er on April 24, 1995 in Chicago. The league’s char- which, combined, provides C-USA with signifi cant na- ter members included Charlotte, Cincinnati, DePaul, tional and regional exposure for football, men’s and Houston, Louisville, Marquette, Memphis, Saint Louis, Britton Banowsky Russ Anderson Debbie Davis Southern Miss, Tulane, UAB and USF. Eleven of the in- Commissioner Asst. Commissioner/ Assoc. Director of women’s basketball, and all other conference sports. Media Relations Media Relations Additionally, the CSTV agreement includes video-on- stitutions began athletic participation in 1995, while (W. Basketball) Conference USA demand, Internet, broadband, national over-the-air Houston joined competition in the fall of 1996. 5201 N. O’Connor Blvd. and satellite radio, and wireless distribution as well Suite 300 as corporate marketing rights, and website produc- The league’s headquarters were established in Chica- Irving, TX 75039 tion through CSTV Online, a subsidiary of CSTV. The go and after nine years, relocated to the current offi ce agreement with ESPN extends the conference’s cur- Phone: (214) 774-1300 in Irving, Texas. Britton Banowsky was named Com- CONFERENCE USA Media Relations Fax: (214) 496-0055 rent regular season football package to include the missioner in October 2002, succeeding Mike Slive, the broadcast of the conference’s Football Championship league’s fi rst commissioner. Game. It also encompasses distribution of men’s bas- In addition, 28 volleyball teams, 39 men’s and wom- ketball and women’s basketball on ESPN/ESPN2 and C-USA added East Carolina (September, 1996) and en’s soccer teams and 17 softball teams have earned both tournament championship games. NCAA Tournament bids. C-USA has sent three men’s the United States Military Academy (March, 1997) as football members. ECU began league competition soccer teams to the NCAA College Cup, fi ve softball C-USA IN THE COMMUNITY in 1997; Army in 1998 and UAB began football play teams to the Women’s College World Series and three The conference’s footprint is concentrated with 12 in 1999. The league added TCU and ECU (1999) for volleyball teams to the Sweet 16. The league has also members in nine states and a combined area popula- had three national champions in NCAA track and fi eld all sports and they began competition in 2001. USF tion of nearly 17 million. More than 1.1 million living competition, one national champion in diving and started C-USA football in 2003. numerous NCAA individual and team competitors in alumni represent C-USA schools across the nation. With a renewed commitment to community involve- cross country, golf, swimming, tennis and track and After celebrating its 10th Anniversary during the ment, the conference has begun development of sev- fi eld. Overall, Conference USA teams and individuals 2004-05 season, C-USA began a new chapter in 2005- eral initiatives to maintain strong ties in C-USA cities, have made 506 NCAA appearances. 06 when its current membership came together to as well as with fans and alumni across the country. form the new look of the league. SUCCESS OFF THE FIELD C-USA schools also place a priority on giving back to C-USA institutions are among the nation’s best in their communities through volunteer service with lo- Since its formation, C-USA has established a strong academic performance among student-athletes, cal and national organizations. bolstered by the fact that student-athletes at league foundation, an identity and a history that refl ects the league’s national presence. Twelve years of remark- schools have a higher graduation rate than the gener- GOVERNANCE able history has reinforced the league’s position in al student population. Among C-USA’s 5,000 student- Along with the ACC, Big East, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-10 collegiate athletics, setting the course for the next de- athletes, there are champions off the playing fi eld as and SEC, Conference USA is one of the seven confer- cade and beyond. well. In 12 years, 105 student-athletes earned nation- ences having signifi cant representation in the NCAA al ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America honors, governance structure. The Presidents of the member while 338 were named All-District. In addition, more institutions serve as the league’s Board of Directors. R. than 13,000 student-athletes have been named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll or received the Commis- Gerald Turner of SMU will serve as chair of the Board

19 CONFERENCE USA What Conference USA MeansTo Marshall University In Terms ofNationalExposure

20 SMU Hoops for the Cure Tournament, Dallas, Texas Gardner Webb at East Carolina NOVEMBER Sam Houston State at SMU Houston Baptist at Marshall Fri., January 2 Wed., February 4 Lady Eagle Thanksgiving Classic, Hattiesburg, Miss. Dartmouth at SMU Tulane at UTEP Houston at Rice Fri., November 14 Alcorn State at Southern Miss Mississippi State at Southern Miss UAB at Mississippi State Hampton at East Carolina Marist at Tulsa Blazer Invitational, Birmingham, Ala. Thur., February 5 Southeastern Louisiana at Houston Samford Classic, Birmingham, Ala. Georgia State/Louisiana-Lafayette at UAB UTEP at East Carolina Marshall at Appalachian State UAB vs. Evansville UTEP at New Mexico Sat., January 3 SMU at Southern Miss (CBS C) Northern Arizona at Memphis U.S. Virgin Islands Peach Jam, St. Thomas, V.I Marshall at East Carolina Tulane at Marshall Cal State Northridge at Rice UCF vs. Wisconsin Wed., December 17 Tulsa at SMU Tulsa at UCF Texas-Arlington at SMU UTEP Thanksgiving Classic, El Paso, Texas UCLA at Rice UCF at Southern Miss Southern Miss at Sam Houston Monmouth at UTEP Tulane at Nicholls State Rice at Texas-San Antonio Sat., February 7 Preseason WNIT Tulsa at Southern Miss Illinois State at Tulane Sat., November 29 Thur., December 18 Sun., January 4 Memphis at UAB Stetson at UAB Lady Pirates Invitational, Greenville, N.C. Bahamas Splash Shootout, Nassau, Bahamas Tulane at Georgia SMU at UCF Kansas State at UTEP Buff alo/North Carolina A&T at Memphis vs. Texas-Arlington UAB at Memphis East Carolina Miami at UCF Sat., February 7 Sat., November 15 24th Annual Piggly Wiggly Classic, Memphis, Tenn. Mon., January 5 Rice at Houston Gardner-Webb at Houston Stephen F. Austin/Jacksonville State Fri., December 19 George Washington at Rice at Memphis Bahamas Splash Shootout, Nassau, Bahamas Tulsa at UT-San Antonio Sun., February 8 Sun., November 16 Rice at Arkansas-Little Rock East Carolina vs. Mercer Marshall at UTEP Memphis at Belmont SMU Hoops for the Cure Tournament, Dallas, Texas Rice at Hofstra Thur., January 8 East Carolina at Tulane McNeese State at Tulsa Fresno State/Charlotte at SMU Padre Island Tournament, South Padre Island, Texas Marshall at SMU UCF at Colorado Lady Eagle Thanksgiving Classic, Hattiesburg, Miss. SMU vs. Jacksonville State Southern Miss at UAB Thur., February 12 UC Irvine at UTEP Belmont/Michigan at Southern Miss The Desert Draw (Las Vegas, Nev.) East Carolina at Tulsa UTEP at Rice Tulane at Louisiana-Monroe Southern Miss vs. Oklahoma State UCF at Memphis SMU at Memphis Mon., November 17 Samford Classic, Birmingham, Ala. UCF Tournament, Orlando, Fla. Tulane at Houston North Texas at Marshall UAB vs. McNeese State Wake Forest at UCF Fri., January 9 Tulsa at UAB Tennessee State at Southern Miss UCF at U.S. Virgin Islands Peach Jam, St. Thomas, V.I. Rice at UTEP UAB at South Alabama UCF vs. Villanova Sat., December 20 Houston at Tulane Fri., February 13 UTEP Thanksgiving Classic, El Paso, Texas Bahamas Splash Shootout, Nassau, Bahamas Southern Miss at East Carolina Tue., November 18 Texas State/Utah at UTEP East Carolina vs. Florida Atlantic Sat., January 10 UCF at Marshall Appalachian State at East Carolina Memphis vs. Georgia Tech/Winthrop East Carolina at SMU Louisiana Tech at Memphis DECEMBER Richmond at Marshall Southern Miss at Memphis Memphis vs. Georgia Tech/Winthrop Marshall at Tulsa Wed., November 19 Mon., December 1 Padre Island Tournament, South Padre Island, Texas UCF at UAB Sat., February 14 Houston at Oregon State Eastern New Mexico at UTEP SMU vs. Virginia Tech/IUPUI UTEP at Houston (CBS C) Prairie View A&M at Rice St. John’s Holiday Invitational, Queens, N.Y. Sun., January 11 Tulane at Rice Missouri State at Tulsa Tue., December 2 Houston vs. Boston College Houston at UTEP (ESPN2) Houston at North Texas The Desert Draw at UNLV Rice at Tulane Sun., February 15 Thur., November 20 Texas-Arlington at Marshall Southern Miss at UNLV/ vs. Cal State Northridge UCF at East Carolina Southern Miss at South Alabama Tulane Doubletree Classic, New Orleans, La. Wed., January 14 Southern Miss at Marshall (ESPN2) New Mexico State at UTEP Wed., December 3 Alabama State at Tulane Marshall vs. West Virginia Memphis at Tulsa Arkansas at Memphis Georgia at UAB UAB at SMU Fri., November 21 Southern Miss at Arkansas-Little Rock Nebraska at UTEP Fri., January 16 Presbyterian at East Carolina Tulsa at UMKC UAB at Houston Thur., February 19 Miami at Houston Florida at UAB Sun., December 21 Memphis at Rice Southern Miss at Tulane Fifth Third Classic, Huntington, W.Va. UCF at Alabama St. John’s Holiday Invitational UCF at UTEP Tennessee State at Marshall Houston vs. TBA Sun., January 18 Memphis at Mississippi Fri., December 5 Rice at Lafayette East Carolina at Marshall Fri., February 20 SMU at Arkansas Texas Southern at Houston Tulane Doubletree Classic, New Orleans, La. Memphis at Houston East Carolina at Memphis UAB at Charlotte UNO-Tulane Big Easy Classic, New Orleans, La. SE Missouri State/Providence at Tulane UAB at Rice SMU at Houston Florida A&M at UCF Tulane vs. Jackson State Tulsa at Oklahoma SMU at Tulsa Marshall at UAB UCF Tournament Tulsa at Rice

UTEP at Tulane (ESPN2) C-USA COMPOSITE SCHEDULE Sat., November 22 Sat., December 6 Ole Miss at UCF UCF at Southern Miss Fifth Third Classic, Huntington, W.Va. East Carolina at Virginia Sat., February 21 Morgan State/UL Monroe at Marshall Marshall at Seton Hall Sun., December 28 Thu., January 22 Southern Miss at UTEP Tulsa at Oral Roberts Texas-Arlington at Rice Akron at Houston Memphis at East Carolina UCF at Tulane Florida Atlantic at UCF William Carey at Southern Miss Arkansas-Pine Bluff at SMU Houston at Southern Miss Savannah State at UTEP UNO-Tulane Big Easy Classic, New Orleans, La. Temple at Tulane SMU at Tulane Sun., February 22 Indiana State at Tulane San Diego State Tournament Tulsa at UTEP Tulsa at Houston Sun., November 23 Central Arkansas at Tulsa UTEP vs. Texas UAB at Marshall Marshall at Memphis Baylor at Rice UAB at Central Michigan Rice at UCF SMU at Rice Tulane at Preseason WNIT Mon., December 29 East Carolina at UAB Sun., December 7 FIU Tournament, Miami, Fla. Sat., January 24 Mon., November 24 SMU at Texas A&M East Carolina vs. Marist Memphis at Marshall Thur., February 26 Ohio at Memphis UCF at Florida Gulf Coast Terrapin Classic, College Park, Md. SMU at UTEP Houston at Marshall SMU at Eastern Illinois UTEP at New Mexico State Marshall vs. Mississippi State Tulsa at Tulane Rice at East Carolina (CBS C) Tulane at LSU Ole Miss Holiday Classic UAB at East Carolina UAB at Southern Miss Tulsa at Stephen F. Austin Tue., December 9 Rice vs. Tennessee-Martin Tulane at SMU Tulsa at Arkansas-Little Rock Texas-Arlington at Tulsa Sun., January 25 UTEP at Tulsa Tues., November 25 Alabama A&M at UAB Southern Miss at Rice Memphis at UCF East Carolina at Virginia Commonwealth Thur., December 11 UCF at Houston Houston at TCU South Alabama at Memphis Tues., December 30 Sat., February 28 Morehead at Marshall FIU Tournament, Miami, Fla. Thur., January 29 Houston at East Carolina Furman at Rice Sat., December 13 East Carolina vs. Georgia Southern/at FIU Houston at SMU Rice at Marshall Southern Miss at Louisiana-Monroe Ohio at Marshall Terrapin Classic, College Park, Md. UTEP at Memphis UTEP at SMU SE Missouri State at Southern Miss Marshall vs. Maryland/UNC Nashville Rice at Tulsa Memphis at Southern Miss Wed., November 26 Memphis at Tennessee Tech Marshall at Southern Miss Tulane at Tulsa Louisiana-Lafayette at Tulane Sun., December 14 Rice vs. Ole Miss/Northwestern State Tulane at UAB Auburn at UAB East Carolina at UNC Wilmington SMU at TCU East Carolina at UCF MARCH Cal Poly at Houston Nicholls State at Southern Miss Thur., November 27 Memphis at Mississippi State Tulane vs. South Florida Sat., January 31 Sun., March 1 U.S. Virgin Islands Peach Jam, St. Thomas, V.I North Texas at SMU San Diego State Tournament Houston at Tulsa UAB at UCF (CBS C) UCF vs. Baylor Mississippi Valley State at UTEP UTEP at San Diego State/ vs. Sacramento State Rice at SMU East Carolina at Southern Miss Denotes Conference USA game Fri., November 28 Mon., December 15 Wed., December 31 Tulane at Memphis Lady Pirates Invitational, Greenville, N.C. Blazer Invitational, Birmingham, Ala. Houston at Kansas UTEP at UAB North Carolina Central at Alabama State at UAB Texas Southern at Tulsa Marshall at UCF East Carolina UCF at Jacksonville Southern Miss at UCF 24th Annual Piggly Wiggly Classic, Memphis, Tenn. FEBRUARY Wichita State at Memphis Tues., December 16 JANUARY

21 Winning and Marshall Women’s Basketball have become synonymous over the last fi ve years. For the fi rst time in 20 years, the Thundering Herd LOCKER ROOM CLUB The Thundering Herd holds a Little Dribblers camp has put together fi ve straight .500 seasons or better. The upcoming 2008- each summer where coaches and players work with 09 season promises to be no exception as four starters, solid depth and children ages 5 to 13. a wealth of talented newcomers are set to step onto the Cam Henderson Center fl oor for Thundering Herd head coach Royce Chadwick.

The Herd has also lived up to the term “student-athlete” by placing fi ve players on the Conference USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll in 2008. In the past four years, several team members have completed their undergradu- ate degrees and played their fi nal season while entering their Master’s program.

The Locker Room Club has been an integral part of the success of the Mar- shall University women’s basketball team by providing fi nancial support and volunteer work. Summer school tuition, team travel, equipment and recruit- ing are areas in which the Locker Room Club has contributed funding to enhance the overall program.

The LRC Golf Scramble, Celebrity Chef Auction, Pancake Breakfast and “When I Grow Up” Career Day have all been a part of bringing the Tri-State community and the Herd together. Aside from fundraising events, the club and team participate in other events including pregame Chalk Talk, post- game socials, trips to road contests, the postseason banquet and numer- ous luncheons throughout the season.

People can make the difference in any endeavor and our Locker Room Club members have done just that.

The Locker Room Club held its 5th Annual Golf Scramble in August. Over 100 golfers participated in the event, which is one of the LRC’s biggest fundraisers of the year. To become a difference maker for Marshall women’s basketball, join the Locker Room Club. For more information, please call the women’s basketball offi ce at (304) 696-5445.

22 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Another LRC fundraiser is the annual Pancake Breakfast, which is hosted by Max & Erma’s.

Team

C-USA C-USA Team Gun Rum’s Conference Champion Shareholders All-Americans PlayersPrime Time Hall of Fame $75 $150 $250 $500 $1K $5K $10K Big Green Priority Points x x x x x x x Tailgate Party x x x x x x x Post Game Socials x x x x x x x Camp Discount x x x x x x x Chalk Talks x x x x x x x Newsletter x x x x x x x Guest Coach Exh. Game x (2) x (2) x (2) x (2) Guest Coach Home Game x (2) x (2) x (2) Guest Coach Team Travel x (2) x (2)

Locker Room Access x (2) LOCKER ROOM CLUB

The club holds numerous events throughout the year with players, coaches and boosters. Below, the club held a tailgate prior to a Marshall home football game.

The Celebrity Chef Auction is always a fun event as local celebrities donate their time and cooking skills to the club. Marshall president Dr. Stepehn J. Kopp, an avid women’s basketball supporter, is shown at the event with wife Jane (right) and Rocky Smith.

23 Academic Support Services Tara Helton BHSAP Director BUCK HARLESS PROGRAM Marshall University is taking the lead in preparing its student-athletes for life after Tara Helton joined the Buck Harless Student intercollegiate athletics. The program responsible in seeing the athletes succeed Athlete Program as an Academic Counselor for is the Buck Harless Student-Athlete Program. The program was established in Football in April of 2005. She was appointed Director of the Buck Harless Student Athlete 1981 after a generous fi nancial contribution from Mingo County businessman Program in November, 2006. Buck Harless. A West Virginia native, she received both her B.A. and her M.A. in Counseling from The program’s purpose is to aid all Marshall student-athletes in their academic Marshall University. Before joining the staff she endeavors while evaluating their athletic eligibility. Marshall athletes have was a tutor at the HELP Program for 6 years. access to tutors, academic counselors and computer labs to assist them in their Helton is married to MU Video Coordinator academic pursuits. Brad Helton and the couple has two children, Ryan and Haley. There have been more than 500 academic all-conference selections since the program’s inception and a great deal of those academic standouts have earned national acclaim. For instance, several Marshall football players have earned Academic All-District honors and All-America honors and the football team has been recognized by the Coaches Association repeatedly for its high graduation rates. One of Marshall’s proudest academic moments came in 1999 when quarterback , an Academic All-American, earned the National Football Foundation’s prestigious Vincent DePaul Draddy Award that is presented annual to the top student-athlete in all of college football. In 2006, Marshall University placed 166 student-athletes on the C-USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll (3.0 or better) - second only to ’s 174 members. That number continues to climb as Marshall placed more than 180 student-athletes on the Commissioner’s Honor Roll in 2007.

Jennifer Burkhart Aliese Orndorff Annette Starling The student-athlete label says it all; college athletes are students fi rst and Counselor Counselor Program Assistant foremost. At Marshall University that philosophy is impressed upon all the Thundering Herd athletes by their coaches, instructors and fellow students.

▲ Marshall student-athletes have access to state-of-the-art computer labs and outstanding tutors and counselors.

24